CPU prices set to rise for Intel and AMD in late 2026
Speculation is mounting that CPU prices are set to rise across the board in October, affecting both Intel and AMD. While some current models remain competitively priced, upcoming silicon and older architectures face different pricing dynamics driven by wafer costs and market demand.
AMD Passes on Wafer Cost Increases
AMD has officially confirmed it will pass increased wafer prices directly to customers. Speaking at the Citi's 2026 Global TMT Conference, Jean Hu, AMD's EVP, CFO, and Treasurer, clarified that this is not a move to artificially inflate margins but reflects their standard operating procedure. "If there's a wafer price increase, we absolutely want to make sure we share that with the customers," Hu stated. The company emphasizes its commitment to providing the best Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) and maintaining long-term strategic relationships, noting that while gross margin is important, they will not raise prices solely to expand it.
This price adjustment primarily impacts newer processors manufactured on modern processes where costs at contract manufacturer TSMC have steadily climbed. Consequently, the latest chips arriving soon and future Ryzen models expected in 2027 are likely to be significantly more expensive than their predecessors.
Older CPUs Remain a Value Option
Despite the general trend toward higher pricing, older processors may remain interesting for budget-conscious buyers. AMD has recently reintroduced several legacy chips, with the AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D Tray version standing out as a top recommendation for gaming desktops at approximately 274 euros.
Intel Raises Prices and Expands Margins
Intel is also expected to increase prices by roughly 10 percent starting in October, according to reports from the Taiwanese industry publication DigiTimes. The company has ramped up server production but continues to struggle with demand in other segments. Seizing this opportunity to boost margins has already resulted in a nine percent jump in Intel's stock price as analysts see further potential.
However, opportunities for affordable CPUs still exist for end-users. Bestsellers like the Intel Core Ultra 7 270K Plus (starting around 278 euros) and the Intel Core Ultra 5 250K Plus (starting around 194 euros) have recently hit their lowest price points, offering a chance to secure high-performance silicon before the broader price hike takes full effect.
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